Powered by 2 MTU 1,360 kW (1,820 hp) 12V 396 Series TE 84 diesel engines, each driving a Marine Jet Power waterjet, she could complete the crossing between the two terminals in 22 minutes, cruising at 32.5 kn (60.2 km/h; 37.4 mph).

Her introduction was speeded up in order to compete with the rival Cowes Express service.

Her arrival led to the withdrawal of the hydrofoil ferry Shearwater 4.

The two craft left Southampton on the La Rochelle bound for Saint Petersburg on 14 May.

[4] She was renamed CM Jet 2 and used on Caspian's ferry routes.